Riyad Mahrez: Athlete's Biography

Club Career

Early Career

Riyad Mahrez's professional career began when he joined French club Quimper, quickly showcasing his abilities in his only season there. In 2010, Mahrez moved to Le Havre, a decision motivated by the club's renowned youth system. He played initially for the reserve team before becoming a regular in the first team, making 60 appearances in Ligue 2 and scoring six goals.

Leicester City

2013–14 Season

In January 2014, Mahrez signed with Leicester City, who were then in the English Championship, for a fee of around £450,000. Initially unknown in England, he quickly adapted, helping Leicester win the Championship and secure promotion to the Premier League. Mahrez's debut came in January 2014 against Middlesbrough.

2015–16 Season

Mahrez's true breakout season came in 2015-16, when he played an instrumental role in Leicester City's sensational Premier League title win, scoring 17 goals and providing numerous assists. His performances earned him multiple accolades including the PFA Players' Player of the Year and a spot in the PFA Team of the Year.

Manchester City

Mahrez transferred to Manchester City in July 2018 for a club-record fee for Leicester City of £60 million. Although initially limited in playing time, he managed to secure his second Premier League title and became part of the first Manchester City team to win a domestic treble during the 2018–19 season. Over the subsequent seasons, Mahrez contributed to City's multiple domestic successes and was part of their UEFA Champions League-winning squad in 2022-23.

Al-Ahli

In July 2023, Mahrez moved to Saudi Pro League's Al-Ahli, in a transfer reportedly valued at £30 million. He quickly made an impact, assisting in his first competitive match for the club.

National Team Career

Senior National Team

Mahrez made his international debut for Algeria in 2014 and represented the national team in major tournaments such as the 2014 FIFA World Cup and several Africa Cup of Nations, winning the latter in 2019. Known for his leadership qualities, Mahrez was named captain of the Algerian national team by coach Djamel Belmadi, guiding the team to its first Africa Cup of Nations title in 29 years, demonstrating his crucial role in the squad.

Riyad Karim Mahrez is a professional footballer known for his exceptional skills as a right winger, currently playing for Saudi Pro League club Al-Ahli and serving as the captain of the Algeria national team. A key figure in modern football, Mahrez's career is highlighted by significant achievements including Premier League triumphs with Leicester City and Manchester City and a victorious 2019 Africa Cup of Nations campaign with Algeria. His contributions have been acknowledged with prestigious awards such as the PFA Players' Player of the Year and the CAF African Footballer of the Year.

Achievements

Team Achievements

• Premier League Champion with Leicester City (2015–16)
• Multiple Premier League titles with Manchester City (2018–19, 2020–21, 2021–22, 2022–23)
• UEFA Champions League winner with Manchester City (2022–23)
• Africa Cup of Nations winner with Algeria (2019)

Individual Achievements

• PFA Players' Player of the Year (2015–16)
• CAF African Footballer of the Year (2016)
• BBC African Footballer of the Year (2016)
• Named in the PFA Team of the Year (2015–16)

Awards and Recognition

Riyad Mahrez has been consistently recognized for his footballing prowess throughout his career, earning numerous individual accolades such as the PFA Fans' Player of the Year and multiple inclusions in the CAF Team of the Year.

Career Overview

Riyad Mahrez's career is marked by a blend of skill, resilience, and leadership, highlighted by his transformative impact at Leicester City and continued excellence at Manchester City. His journey from French lower leagues to global prominence embodies determination and perseverance.

Off the Field

Outside of football, Mahrez is known for his commercial engagements and philanthropy, maintaining a favorable public image. He overcame personal challenges, including the loss of valuable possessions in a burglary, and remains committed to his faith and family.

Personal Life

Mahrez's personal life is characterized by his close ties to family and community. Originally married to Rita Johal, with whom he has two daughters, Mahrez is now engaged to model Taylor Ward, with whom he shares a daughter. His Muslim faith plays a central role in his life, influencing his actions and commitments off the field.